What Mom Really Wants: 12 Tips for a Stunningly Clean Bathroom

Flowers and chocolates are all fine and good on Mother’s Day, but if you’re looking for something that will really wow her this year, read on.

Want to do something that will really impress your mom? Try cleaning the bathroom. We’re not talking a 10 minute basic cleaning. We’re talking a deep clean that she can appreciate for months to come. Here are some tips and tricks for cleaning the bathroom that will help you do something spectacular for Mom this year.

1. Top to Bottom, Left to Right

A thorough cleaning job uses a system that ensures you don’t miss anything nor do you have to clean anything twice. For instance, if you clean the vanity top then notice cobwebs in the ceiling corners, you’ll probably have to wipe down the counters again after you brush out those cobwebs. By starting at the top and working your way down, you avoid this, plus you do a more thorough job. You get the same effect when you work from one side to the other as well. 

2. The Dark Underbelly

Clean the places that are easily overlooked. Take that dive under the vanity cabinet and give it a good scrub. Give some attention to the window above the shower. Haul the trash cans outside and give them the once over. Take a toothbrush to the nooks and crannies of the bathtub faucet. Don’t take any shortcuts by cleaning around items; if they are moveable, move them and clean under them.

3.  High-Touch Polishing

Any areas that are frequently touched in the bathroom deserve some extra attention. Whether it’s the flush handle on the toilet that needs disinfecting, the light switches that need a wipe down, or the glass shower door, any areas that get fingerprint-y are things that Mom will surely notice. It’s not a bad idea to clean towel racks, toilet paper holders, and other items that aren’t necessarily high-touch, but high visibility.

4. Bath Mats & Rugs

Especially in the bathroom, mats and rugs can get really dirty and nobody notices. Give bath mats a good scrub, top and bottom. Use a brush with a disinfectant to get all the little hard-to-reach spots. Vacuum rugs or take them outside and give them a good shake/beating. If you detect a musty or otherwise unpleasant odor, throw smaller rugs into the washer on the delicate cycle then dry outside in the sun.

5.  Shower Woes

It takes nothing short of elbow grease to get that build-up off the shower. Once you’re done with that, don’t forget the shower curtain or door. Use glass cleaner and squeegee to make glass spotless. Remove shower curtains and throw them in the washing machine with a few old towels on a delicate cycle then air dry.

 6. Shower Head Maintenance

Mom might give the shower head a wipe down occasionally, but build up (especially if you have hard water) may require some maintenance. Fill a plastic zipper bag halfway up with white vinegar then submerge the shower head in it and secure. Let it sit overnight. In the morning remove the bag and run hot water through the showerhead to rinse. The vinegar will break down buildup and leave the shower head bright and shiny.

7. Nasty Grout

Another area that mom might be avoiding is the tile grout. It’s a big, nasty job but you’re really trying to impress your mom, right? Use a tile/mildew cleaner specifically made for cleaning grout, or make your own with 1 cup baking soda, ½ cup hydrogen peroxide, and 1 teaspoon of dish soap. Place directly on the grout and let sit for 10 minutes. Give it a thorough scrub and rinse. 

8. ”Sitting” on the Toilet

Toilets are something Mom cleans all. the. time. But you can do a really good job with just one simple tip: let it sit. Spray the cleaner over the whole toilet, scrub the inside of the toilet (don’t forget up under the edge), then let it sit. You can wipe down the outside parts of the toilet while you wait, but give it a good 10 minutes for the cleaner to do its magic. Flush afterward and you’ll have a fresh, clean toilet that Mom can appreciate.

9. A Single Command Center

You’ll find yourself needing to rinse rags, brushes, and the like as you clean the bathroom. Choose one sink as your cleaning station instead of switching between faucets throughout the bathroom. In the end, you’ll only have one sink to clean up instead of leaving dirt behind where you’ve already cleaned.

10. Towel Dry

Even after you clean and rinse, you leave behind water spots. Water spots aren’t dirty, but they also don’t leave the bathroom looking its best. Use a clean towel to dry things after you clean them to leave faucets polished and sinks and showers sparkling.  You can even dry the floor after mopping so you don’t leave behind streaks. 

11. Back Yourself Out of the Room

The very last thing you’ll do is the floors. The key to a truly clean floor is to back yourself out of the room. Start on the far side from the door and work your way to the door. You won’t miss anything, nor will you track dirt around or leave anything behind. Same for mopping. Don’t leave tracks on the wet floor by going back over where you’ve already cleaned.

12. Repairs for the Win

While you give the bathroom a deep clean, you might notice a few needed repairs or updates. Take initiative and add those to your checklist to complete before Mother’s Day arrives. Maybe you go big with a new faucet or shower door. Or you can keep it simple and install a  towel warmer or new toilet paper dispenser. Just make sure you clean up after yourself!

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Hi Tech Showers -- Hello Jetsons!

If you think you know the meaning of the word shower. Rethink it. Today’s steam showers (enclosed shower stalls with a steam shower included) are tricked-out to the max — fully loaded with ultra-cool bells and whistles with all sorts of temperature controls and water pressure systems, plus built-in-music/CD connections and so much more. 

Remodeled or newly designed spacious bathrooms have inspired bathroom retreats like never before. At Decor Planet, we’ve paid attention to wet zone trends by taking modern contemporary looks and pairing them with what we like to call “forward thinking,” high tech showers. 

Hi Tech Showers

How does an ozone sterilization shower system strike you? If that sounds too complicated, then let’s get to the high tech shower basics: think spray coverage and thermal dynamics, mood lighting and rain showers too. 

Our opulent shower options come equipped with features and functions that maximize your bathroom’s value. When we say affordable luxury, we mean it!

Vertical Spas

Since oftentimes taking a bath in a tub with whirlpool jets is a luxury of time, showers remain the No.1 daily choice for homeowners. So nowadays custom-showering isn’t about run-of-the-mill extras. Anything but! If you want a vacation at home, this is it — with aromatherapy, CD/iPod hookups, acupuncture massages and even seating. That's what high tech showers are all about.

Here are the facts — a home shower system can also be used as an everyday shower but it has extras galore. Gone is the simple showerhead with its cold/hot control knob. In its place are units with body sprays, hand-held showerheads and even shower towers! 

Have we enticed you yet? Well, there’s more. Multiple shower jets, body sprays and foot massages are the norm in showers from such respected top-selling brands as Neptune, Graff, and La Toscana.

Find Hi Tech Showers

And while we’re the leading go-to online destination for everything you’ll need for your bathroom — visit one of our three showrooms. No kidding! We recommend actually standing in your future shower prior to purchase to make sure it’s the perfect fit.

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Considering a Topless Vanity?

The majority of bathroom vanities come with a countertop and sink. However, if you want to customize different aspects of the vanity (like the countertop, hardware, etc.), you may want to consider cabinet-only options.

Why Consider A Topless Vanity Option?

Bathrooms are not one-size-fits-all, meaning even with a wide selection of options, there is not always a prefabricated vanity ideal for every space. What’s more, choosing a vanity that you can customize gives you more opportunity to change designs in the future. Prefabricated models often have tops permanently affixed. Topless options allow you to choose how counters are secured, giving you a better idea of how to remove them if you desire a simple upgrade.

When you choose a topless vanity (a cabinet without a countertop), you are given full control over its customization. Selecting a topless vanity allows you to also select sink, hardware, and other features most complementary to your space. Most bathroom vanities are standard sizes, giving you innumerable choices when it comes to finding just the right top.

Just as there is no one-size-fits-all bathroom, there is no single right solution for the updating of every space. At Décor Planet we pride ourselves on offering the widest variety of topless vanities to help each of our customers choose the exact option needed to perfect their homes.

Pick a Topless Vanity

How to Defog a Bathroom Mirror Using Shaving Cream

Watch this YouTube video tutorial on how to defog a bathroom mirror using shaving cream.

Or skip the defog a bathroom mirror hassle entirely and go with a fog-free mirror. 

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13 Hacks for Successful DIY on a Budget

Whether you have moved into a new home, are trying to sell your home, or just want to update your spaces, the idea of renovation can seem overwhelming. 

This is especially so when you don’t have the financial means to completely gut the room and start from scratch. However, there are many things you can do yourself to improve both the quality and the look of your home without breaking the bank.

Channel those DIY vibes and try these tips and tricks for renovation on a budget.

Shop Sales and Discounts

Keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and coupons at hardware stores, craft stores, and online retailers. Buying materials during sales can significantly reduce your project costs.

Repurpose and Upcycle

Look for items you already have at home that can be repurposed or upcycled for your project. Old furniture, clothing, and household items can often be transformed into something new with a bit of creativity.

Compare Prices

Don't settle for the first price you see. Compare prices from different stores and online retailers to find the best deals on materials.

DecorPlanet guarantees you'll get the best price with our 110% price match guarantee. That means we'll not only match a competitor's price, but give you an extra 10% off. 

Learn More About 110% Price Matching

Paint Makeover

Give old furniture, cabinets, or walls a fresh new look with a coat of paint. Painting is one of the most affordable ways to update and transform your space. Look for discounted paint at hardware stores or consider using leftover paint from previous projects.

Borrow or Trade Tools

If you don't have all the tools you need for your DIY project, consider borrowing them from friends or family members. You can also check if there are tool lending libraries in your area. Alternatively, you could trade services or skills with someone who has the tools you need.

Use Free Resources

Take advantage of free resources like DIY tutorials and templates available online. Websites, blogs, and YouTube channels offer a wealth of information and inspiration for DIY projects.

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Start Small

If you're new to DIY, start with small, manageable projects that require fewer materials and tools. As you gain experience and confidence, you can gradually take on larger projects.

Consider Alternative Materials

Explore alternative materials that are more budget-friendly. For example, instead of hardwood, you could use plywood for furniture projects, or instead of expensive tile, you could use peel-and-stick vinyl for backsplashes or flooring.

Lighting Update

Upgrading your lighting is a quick and affordable way to bring new life to your space and it's easy to do yourself. Replace canned lights with pendant lights. Refresh the light bar in the bathroom. Update that old chandelier. 

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DIY Décor

Instead of buying expensive home décor items, try making your own. DIY wall art, throw pillows, and decorative accents can add personality to your home without breaking the bank.

Embrace Imperfections

Remember that DIY projects don't have to be perfect. Embrace imperfections and view them as part of the charm of handmade items. Focus on enjoying the process rather than striving for perfection.

Hardware Refresh 

Bathroom and kitchen hardware and fixtures are quick and easy updates that can change the entire feel of your spaces. The swap is DIY-able and budget-friendly. Try adding a trending metal color like gold or brass. Matte metals too are a timeless addition. 

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Fabric Remnants

Visit fabric stores and ask for remnants or remnants bins where you can find small pieces of fabric at discounted prices. These can be used for various DIY projects like throw pillow covers, small upholstery projects, or even crafting.

Thrift Store Finds

Explore thrift stores, yard sales, and flea markets for affordable items that can be repurposed or transformed. Look for solid wood furniture with good bones that can be sanded, painted, or refinished to suit your style.

DIY projects are a great way to save money while also adding your personal touch to your living space. A few budget-friendly projects are quick wins for updating any space in your house. 

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Top Brands At DécorPlanet

DécorPlanet.com has partnerships with a number of high-end bathroom and kitchen product manufacturers. A leading online retailer of home fixtures and accessories, we pride ourselves on offering you the most luxurious products for the bathroom and beyond. 

We are always working to expand the options, styles, and brands we offer and work in bulk. That has allowed us to provide a remarkable variety of quality bathtubs, toilets, sinks, mirrors, cabinetry, and similar items at the lowest prices online.

We currently offer some of your favorites: 

• Moen
• Toto
• James Martin Vanities
• Grohe
• Fresca
• Neptune
• Franke
• Robern
• Graffe
• Hansgrohe
• More . . . 

Options from these companies serve to grow DécorPlanet.com’s already impressive selection of eco-friendly products, elegant pedestal and claw-footed tubs, lighting, vanities, faucets, bidets, and countless other items that can improve the look, quality, and convenience of any size bathroom, kitchen, and beyond.

As with all products sold online at DécorPlanet.com, products from these brands are backed with the company’s 110% price match guarantee and hassle-free return policies.

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Modern Bathroom Décor

It may be that “modern” is a misnomer these days because when you’re talking about modern home décor, you’re talking about a style that has been around for over five decades. 

Modern décor really took off post-World War II, and was prevalent in brand new suburbs throughout the country. Mid-century modern homes with post-and-beam design, the idea to bring indoor and outdoor settings together with large windows, and sleek appliances and state-of-the-art materials were all selling points. Gone were over-stated Victorian or traditional doors, hardware, and cabinets. Scandinavian simplicity and natural shapes were en vogue, as were Frank Lloyd Wright and Eichler architecture to give homes functionality and style.

Mid-century designs never went away, and they’ve experienced a renaissance of sorts over the last decade. But, beyond über-modern signature furniture pieces how does modern décor extend to the interior of your home, specifically the bathroom?

Creating Modern Bathroom Décor

Modern bathrooms are minimalist in design. While some bathrooms want the focus to be on the bathtub and shower combo, or the oversized vanity, modern décor works because it blends the walls and appliances into a natural style, much like the Scandinavian designers were hoping for 60 years ago. Bathtubs, showers, and sinks may appear as if they flow out from the floor or wall. Color and tones are often natural or basic. But even this simplicity is a major statement.

As with any kind of bathroom or home décor, you don’t need to have the architecture, or bones, of a home to do what you want. While we’ve all seen homes whose architects gave them obvious modernist designs, even someone living in a well-preserved early 20^th century bungalow can create a bathroom that is completely modern.

Modern Bathroom Décor & Functionality

While style is important, so is the utility of space. Floating vanities, sinks, and toilets will work well in a modern bathroom. Mirrors may seem basic when compared to those with traditional borders, but mirrors with simple borders with straight lines will work; mirrors with LED lighting and fog-free systems are even better.

Shower panels may still seem like a luxury to many people, but in a modern bathroom, they fit just as well as a bathtub-shower combination. Simplicity in style doesn’t have to mean going barebones on luxury or indulging in what you want.

Master bathrooms and half-bathrooms can both benefit from a modern décor makeover, especially if you are updating other parts of your home. The bathroom, like the kitchen, is a room that is used every single day. It’s not too difficult to extend the modern theme throughout your home, even if its design is closer to Victorian or Craftsman. 

Give modern bathroom décor a try today!

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